Plastic waste is everywhere—from packaging and containers to industrial materials and manufacturing byproducts. But not all plastics are created equal. In commercial and industrial settings, some types of plastic waste may be hazardous to human health or the environment. So, how can you tell if your business’s plastic waste is toxic, and what should you do about it?
Let’s break it down.
Why Some Plastics Are Considered Toxic
Plastics can become toxic due to:
- Chemical additives like phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), or brominated flame retardants
- Contamination with oils, solvents, or heavy metals during use or disposal
- Decomposition byproducts that release harmful substances over time
Toxic plastic waste isn’t just bad for the environment—it can pose serious risks to employees, customers, and local communities if mishandled.
Common Types of Toxic Commercial Plastic Waste
Here are some types of plastic waste you should watch out for:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Found in pipes, cables, and flooring. Can release chlorine gas and dioxins when degraded or burned.
- Polycarbonate (PC): Used in electronics and optical media. May contain BPA, a known endocrine disruptor.
- Contaminated packaging: Plastic drums or containers that held hazardous chemicals or industrial fluids.
- E-waste plastics: Plastics from electronics often contain flame retardants and heavy metals.
Businesses looking for safe and responsible commercial plastic disposal in Abbotsford should ensure that these materials are evaluated properly before disposal.
How to Tell if Your Plastic Waste Is Toxic
Here are the key steps to identify potentially hazardous plastic waste in your business:
1. Check Product Labels and SDS Sheets
Refer to the original Safety Data Sheets (SDS) or packaging labels for signs of toxic components.
2. Review Your Industry’s Waste Profile
Industries like construction, automotive, and electronics often generate plastic waste contaminated with hazardous substances.
3. Look for Signs of Contamination
If plastic has been in contact with oils, solvents, paint, or corrosive materials, it may require hazardous waste disposal in Abbotsford to stay compliant with environmental regulations.
4. Consult a Waste Management Expert
A professional waste audit can help determine if your plastic materials are safe to recycle or must be treated as hazardous waste.
The Risks of Improper Disposal
Mishandling toxic plastic waste can result in:
- Fines and legal penalties for improper classification or disposal
- Employee exposure to toxic substances
- Environmental contamination
- Brand damage from bad press or public backlash
If your business generates plastic containers that have held harsh chemicals or byproducts from industrial processes, you might also be dealing with commercial chemical waste disposal in Abbotsford standards.
Safe Disposal with a Trusted Partner
When dealing with potentially hazardous or contaminated plastic waste, it’s essential to work with a certified and experienced disposal provider. Canadian Empire Recycling (Abbotsford) offers safe, compliant solutions for managing all types of commercial plastic, chemical, and hazardous waste. Their team ensures that materials are handled responsibly, protecting both your business and the environment.
Responsible Disposal of Toxic Plastic Waste
So, what should your business do if you have toxic plastic waste? Proper disposal is key to protecting both the environment and your company’s reputation. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Segregate hazardous plastic waste from regular trash and recyclables
- Label the waste clearly as hazardous to ensure safe handling
- Work with a licensed waste disposal company to ensure compliance with local regulations
- Recycle when possible—many plastics, including certain types of PVC and polycarbonate, can be recycled if handled correctly
- Maintain records of all hazardous waste disposal for compliance tracking
Toxic plastic waste isn’t always obvious, but failing to identify and dispose of it correctly can have serious consequences. By recognizing the warning signs, knowing your industry’s waste risks, and working with a certified local provider to contact Canadian Empire Recycling (Abbotsford), you can protect your business, your people, and the planet.